The third and decisive T20 match between India and New Zealand will be played on 25 January 2026 at the Eden Gardens Stadium, Guwahati. This match will determine the winner of the series and promises an exciting contest for cricket fans.
Probable Playing XI for IND vs NZ 3rd T20 2026
India (IND) Probable XI:
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Abhishek Sharma
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Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper)
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Ishan Kishan
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Suryakumar Yadav (Captain)
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Hardik Pandya
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Shivam Dube
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Rinku Singh
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Axar Patel / Kuldeep Yadav
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Jasprit Bumrah / Harshit Rana
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Arshdeep Singh
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Varun Chakravarthy
New Zealand (NZ) Probable XI:
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Tim Seifert (Wicketkeeper)
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Devon Conway
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Rachin Ravindra
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Glenn Phillips
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Mark Chapman
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Daryl Mitchell
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Mitchell Santner (Captain)
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Kyle Jamieson
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Matt Henry
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Ish Sodhi
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Jacob Duffy
Guwahati Pitch Report
The pitch in Guwahati is considered balanced for T20 matches:
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Early overs may provide some assistance to bowlers.
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Middle overs are generally favorable for batsmen to score runs.
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Fast bowlers and spinners can play a key role in determining the outcome.
According to the pitch report, the team winning the toss might prefer batting first, but the final decision will depend on pitch conditions and weather.
Match Prediction
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India is considered strong and experienced on home ground.
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New Zealand relies on fast bowling and effective strike rotation in overseas conditions.
Based on current form and team balance, India holds a slight advantage, but cricket is unpredictable, and any team can win. The match outcome will also depend on the toss and pitch conditions.
Match Importance
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This is the third and final T20 match, making it the series decider.
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Winning the series is significant for both teams in terms of rankings and prestige.
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Fans can expect exciting batting, fast bowling, and strategic gameplay.